Background
The Valley of the Moon Children’s Foundation Education Fund Scholarship Program was established by Dianne Edwards, Director of Human Services Department, Sonoma County – now retired. Dianne was interested in establishing a fund that individuals, community and business groups could support, that would provide scholarships for former foster children of Sonoma County. The fund is administered by the Valley of the Moon Children’s Foundation; a non profit corporation dedicated to assisting current and former foster youth in achieving their goals and potential.

Program Description
The needs of former foster youth making the transition to independence has been well documented. This program takes an important first step in helping some motivated former foster youth take advantage of higher education.

Initially the scholarship fund will provide scholarships to students who are former foster youth of Sonoma County. Currently, scholarships will be in the sum of $1,500.00 for each successful applicant. The application process is competitive and is limited to former foster youth who have participated in ILP Services (Independent Living Skills Program) in Sonoma County. Successful applicants may receive a second scholarship in year two of their education if they continue to meet the criteria established for new applicants. Under no circumstances will an applicant be funded for more than two years.

Orientation and Selection
The Department of Human Services through the Independent Living Skills Program (ILP) will provide information to youth about the scholarship application through their weekly classes. The ILP Coordinators will also make contact with youth who they believe would benefit from the scholarship program and provide application support for youth as needed.

How can you help?
Please click here to donate and help us further our scholorship program.